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Rethinking the gendered burden of female partners in male factor infertility: a perspective

Lookup NU author(s): Kevin McEleny

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Abstract

© 2025 Korean Society of Women Health Nursing. Introduction: Despite decades of research on infertility, the field continues to overlook how emotional labor is distributed within heterosexual couples—particularly when the infertility diagnosis lies with the male partner. Male factor infertility (MFI) accounts for approximately 30% to 50% of infertility cases worldwide [1]. In heterosexual relationships, this means male partners are increasingly acknowledged in research and counseling protocols. However, the experiences of female partners—who often bear both the procedural demands of treatment and the emotional weight of their partner’s diagnosis—remain insufficiently examined. Research indicates that men and women often process infertility differently, reflecting gendered emotional patterns. This personal view highlights how a diagnosis of MFI can impose additional psychological burdens on female partners and proposes strategies to address the complex emotional needs of couples navigating MFI.

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Author(s): Stevenson EL, Sergison JE, McEleny KR, Moody E

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Women's Health Nursing

Year: 2025

Volume: 31

Issue: 4

Pages: 295-297

Online publication date: 31/12/2025

Acceptance date: 03/11/2025

Date deposited: 26/01/2026

ISSN (print): 3022-7666

ISSN (electronic): 3022-8247

Publisher: Korean Society of Women Health Nursing

URL: https://doi.org/10.4069/whn.2025.11.03

DOI: 10.4069/whn.2025.11.03

Data Access Statement: Please contact the corresponding author for data availability.

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